Catherine, the Princess of Wales, made a surprise visit to a hospital in London on Jan. 8, along with her husband, Prince William, in her first public appearance of 2026.
During her visit to Charing Cross Hospital, Kate referred to her experience with cancer. She announced in March 2024 that she had been diagnosed with cancer and, in September of that year, she confirmed she had finished chemotherapy. In January 2025, she announced she was in remission.
“Those small things do really matter,” Kate told patients.
She and her husband chatted with patients, volunteers and staff throughout the hospital. She referenced her own creative approach to recovery and the importance of holistic help.
“Whether it’s a casual conversation, or it’s the art therapy, or walking, going to a cafe with a patient, it makes such a big difference in that recovery healing journey and also confidence going back into home life,” she said.
Kate’s appearance was unexpected, as the prince had been scheduled to visit the hospital by himself.
“Coming here today and reminding ourselves just how important all the teams are … it’s so heartwarming,” he said.
The princess turned 44 on Jan. 9 and posted a video on Instagram that same day reflecting on the power of nature.
“There is so much we can learn from mother nature, as we look to build a happier, healthier world,” she captioned the post, in part.
“I find myself reflecting on how deeply grateful I am,” she said in a voiceover for the clip. “For the rivers within us flow with ease, fears washed away, cleanse and purify. Come to peace with our tears and discover what it means to be alive. To be at one with nature, a quiet teacher and a soft voice that guides. In memory. Helping us to heal.”
Since she revealed she is in remission, Kate has been seen multiple times at public events. She helped lay a wreath on Remembrance Day in November and attended the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Over the summer, she was cheered while attending Wimbledon and welcomed French President Emmanuel Macron during his trip to England. She also greeted President Trump and first lady Melania Trump when they visited Britain in September.
In November, she gave a speech at the Future Workforce Summit about ensuring children have safe spaces.
“We believe that we must do all we can to create the conditions for love to flourish. That is how we invest in our future,” she said.
In addition, Kate was joined by her kids, George, Charlotte and Louis, at her annual Christmas concert at Westminster Abbey. She was also with the royal family on Christmas Day during its traditional appearance at Sandringham.
